The Architecture of the Betammaribé of Togo: Between Materiality and Immateriality

The Betammaribé people of Togo, part of the broader Somba group spanning Togo and Benin, embody their social and cultural authority through their distinctive architecture, particularly the 'te kye nte' house. This study reveals that the dwelling serves as a material and immaterial repository of symbols governing individual life and social relationships, constructed according to ancestral rules in both practical and symbolic dimensions. While historically lacking centralized leadership, colonial administrative demands led to a chieftaincy structure, though the house remains the primary seat of authority. The research explores the significance of the Betammaribé house, its construction stages, and their relationship with the environment, offering insights into how materiality and immateriality intertwine in this cultural landscape.

Mawussé, P. G.-H. (2025). The Architecture of the Betammaribé of Togo: Between Materiality and Immateriality. Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences (PJLSS), 23(1). https://doi.org/10.57239/pjlss-2025-23.1.00487